“The Scottish Government is committed to maintaining the important work of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) in recording, maintaining and making accessible information on Scotland’s built environment. Their work represents a vital part of Scotland’s cultural heritage.

“However, as a small NDPB with a higher proportion of fixed costs, the current economic climate poses particular challenges. I have therefore commissioned Historic Scotland to undertake a strategic options appraisal on the future delivery of RCAHMS core functions. The review will be undertaken in collaboration with RCAHMS. It will start immediately and report early in 2012.”

Notes for editors

Historic Scotland is an executive agency of the Scottish Government charged with safeguarding the nation’s historic environment. The agency is fully accountable to Scottish Ministers and through them to the Scottish Parliament.